Final thought: A case for the defence

With all the talk about Notts' lack of goals, particularly from a frontman, it seems those at the back have gone a little unnoticed.

The criticism, totally justified, of the Notts "strikers" who between them had

Pilkington... Clean sheet expert

failed to find the net in 18 games before new boy Danny Crow struck the games only goal at Chester City yesterday, meant praise of Notts' defence hasn't quite come.

But yesterday's clean sheet was the seventh kept by goalkeeper Kevin Pilkington since the day Lawrie Dudfield and Hector Sam were the last strikers to score for Notts - in a 3-0 FA Cup win over non-league Histon.

Furthermore, despite Notts having won just three times since defeating Shrewsbury Town and completing their only double so far this season over Chester City, Pilkington's net has bulged just 19 times - in 18 games.

Quite impressive seeing as Notts have struggled badly during that spell.

It keeps getting better aswell. Not since the trip to Bradford City have Notts conceded more than one goal in a single game - some seven games ago.

What this does is further highlight just how much a clinical finisher was needed. If only Crow had been in during this time, just think how much further from relegation trouble the Magpies would now be.

The defence have simply done all they can.

Pilkington is in the best form of his career and looking like the best in League Two at present, while Adam Tann is also in tip-top form after an indifferent start to the campaign.

It seems being given the captain's armband has done him the world of good.

Even the early season, much maligned Lee Canoville is earning praise for his determination and improved displays, while Mike Edwards' return has been incredible after such a serious injury. Since 'steady Eddie' has been back in

Defending... Notts battling at the back

the side, it is worth noting that only three goals have been conceded.

The left back slot is perhaps the only concern at the minute with Stephen Hunt clearly better in a centre half role, and both Austin McCann and Paul Mayo somewhat inconsistent at the best of times.

But now Notts do find themselves with a frontman who does know how to score, the defence will be under even less pressure to perform meaning they can only get better.

It must have been difficult for them knowing that for Notts to stand any chance they had to concede no more than one in a single game.

That pressure has been lifted, and certainly if they keep performing as they are, Notts can only win more and more games.